Do Share Recipe

I still remember the first time I made this Lighter Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe in my own kitchen. I wanted something comforting and creamy, but without feeling overly heavy afterward. As soon as the Cajun spices hit the pan, my kitchen smelled incredible, and I knew this dish was going to be special.

When I finally twirled that pasta into the sauce and took a bite, it was rich, smoky, and perfectly balanced. This is one of those recipes I keep coming back to when I want big flavor with a lighter touch. You can also enjoy a Rotisserie Chicken and Potatoes Recipe for another easy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Chicken breast (500 g, boneless and skinless) – Lean protein that keeps the dish lighter; slice thinly so it cooks fast and stays juicy.
Cajun seasoning (2 tablespoons) – Brings smoky heat and bold flavor; reduce slightly if you prefer mild spice.
Olive oil (1 tablespoon) – Used for sautéing the chicken while keeping the fat content balanced.
Butter (1 tablespoon) – Adds richness and helps the Cajun spices bloom without making the sauce heavy.
Garlic (4 cloves, minced) – Fresh garlic gives a stronger aroma and deeper flavor than jarred versions.
Red bell pepper (1 medium, sliced) – Adds natural sweetness, color, and a slight crunch to balance the creaminess.
Pasta (300 g, penne or fettuccine) – Penne holds sauce well, while fettuccine gives a classic creamy pasta feel.
Low-fat cream or half-and-half (1 cup) – Keeps the sauce creamy but lighter than using heavy cream.
Chicken broth (½ cup) – Loosens the sauce and adds savory depth without extra calories.
Parmesan cheese (½ cup, freshly grated) – Freshly grated cheese melts smoothly and enhances flavor.
Salt (to taste) – Adjust carefully since Cajun seasoning and Parmesan already contain salt.
Black pepper (½ teaspoon) – Adds mild heat and balances the richness of the sauce.
Fresh parsley (for garnish) – Brightens the dish and adds a fresh finish.

Note: This recipe serves 4 people as a main dish.

Variations

This recipe is easy to adapt based on dietary needs or what you have on hand. You can also try Rotisserie Chicken Bowls Recipe for a similar flavorful chicken dish in a convenient bowl.

Variations

Dairy-free option – Replace cream with coconut milk or dairy-free cooking cream and swap Parmesan with nutritional yeast.
Extra veggie boost – Add spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms near the end for more nutrients and texture.
Lower-carb version – Use whole wheat pasta, chickpea pasta, or zucchini noodles instead of regular pasta.
Extra smoky flavor – Add smoked paprika or a splash of hot sauce to enhance the Cajun spice profile.

Cooking Time

This dish comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Equipment You Need

Having the right tools makes the process smooth and stress-free.

Large skillet – for cooking the chicken and building the sauce
Pasta pot – to boil the pasta evenly
Wooden spoon – for stirring without scratching the pan
Sharp knife – to slice chicken and vegetables cleanly
Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate seasoning

How to Make Lighter Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe?

This recipe is straightforward, and each step builds on the last for maximum flavor.

Prepare the Chicken

Start by slicing the chicken breast into thin strips and coating them evenly with Cajun seasoning. I like to gently rub the spices in so they stick well. This ensures every bite is flavorful once cooked.

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente. Drain it well, but save a small cup of pasta water just in case you need to loosen the sauce later.

Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until golden on both sides and fully cooked through. Remove it from the pan and set it aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the sliced bell pepper and cook until slightly softened. Stir in the garlic and cook briefly until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.

Build the Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth and low-fat cream, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Let the sauce simmer gently until it thickens slightly and becomes silky.

Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and add the drained pasta. Toss everything together so the sauce coats the pasta evenly. Sprinkle in the Parmesan and stir until melted.

Finish and Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot for the best texture and flavor.

Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better

After making this dish several times, I’ve learned a few tricks that really elevate it.

I always slice the chicken evenly so it cooks at the same rate.
I let the sauce simmer gently instead of boiling to keep it smooth.
I add Parmesan gradually so it melts without clumping.
I finish with a splash of pasta water if the sauce feels too thick.

How to Serve Lighter Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe?

This pasta looks beautiful straight from the skillet, but a little presentation goes a long way. I like serving it in shallow bowls with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan and fresh parsley on top. A side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad pairs perfectly. For a more elegant touch, add a few slices of grilled lemon or a light drizzle of olive oil before serving.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a general idea of what you’re getting in each serving.

Calories: Around 480 per serving
Protein: Approximately 35 g
Carbohydrates: About 45 g
Fat: Roughly 18 g

Make Ahead and Storage

Make Ahead

You can prepare the chicken and sauce a day in advance and store them separately. When ready to serve, cook fresh pasta and combine everything for the best texture.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The pasta stays fresh for up to 3 days without losing too much creaminess.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of broth or milk. This helps bring the sauce back to life without drying it out.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

There are plenty of reasons this lighter creamy Cajun chicken pasta deserves a spot in your regular rotation.

It delivers bold Cajun flavor with a lighter, creamier balance that doesn’t feel heavy.
The recipe is quick and simple, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
It’s versatile and easy to customize for different diets or preferences.
The ingredients are straightforward and easy to find in any grocery store.

This dish proves that comfort food can still feel fresh, balanced, and satisfying—all in one bowl.

Ben Carraoli